Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert has accused LeBron James of a “cowardly betrayal,” after the basketball star announced his decision to join the Miami Heat during a one-hour tv special.
Gilbert told Cavaliers fans: “As you now know, our former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this evening, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier.
“This was announced with a several day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his ‘decision’ unlike anything ever witnessed in the history of sports.”
James, who has twice been named the NBA’s most valuable player, announced his move to Miami Heat after a one-hour special on broadcast giants ESPN.
He has been a free agent since the end of June and is set to earn $16m a year, making him the highest paid basketballer in the world.
“I wanted to do what was best for LeBron James,” said LeBron James.
“I never wanted to leave Cleveland. My heart will always be around that area. But I also felt like this is the greatest challenge for me, to move on.”
“I feel awful. I feel even worse that I wasn’t able to bring an NBA championship to that city.”
